Best Stroller Wagons – Stroller Alternative For Big Kids

Are you going to Disneyland and looking for a double stroller alternative that is allowed there? Or maybe your child has already outgrown your stroller and you need something bigger for daily use and trips? Stroller wagon combo may be just what you need!

Stroller wagon hybrids combine functionality of strollers with a wagon’s large capacity. It’s not surprising they get more and more popular lately.

However, stroller wagons are quite new on the market and parents have a lot of questions about them: “Can it be an alternative to a big kid stroller?”, “What features these wagons can offer parents?”, “Aren’t they too big for an everyday use?” and of course: “Which stroller wagon is currently the best?”.

Few Thoughts On Stroller Wagons (+ My 2 Favorite Models)

First of all, I need to tell you that there are plenty wagons on the market which are design only for play – for pulling kids in the backyard or close neighborhood, but that’s it. These wagons don’t provide enough comfort or safety features to use them every day instead of a stroller. They are not the subject of this article.

However, there are also stroller wagon hybrids that actually can be used instead of a regular stroller. There are two models worth mentioning: Keenz 7S Stroller Wagon and Veer Cruiser Stroller Wagon Hybrid (review and comparison below).

They provide comfortable space for two kids, even for long strolls. They were designed for parents who like day trips and exploring outdoors with their kids, especially those older, big kids.

Keenz 7S Stroller Wagon

Lighter than many double strollers

Suitable from 12 months and up (even for 6 and 8 year old!)

Padded interior – fabric is removable and washable

Fully-equipped and functional (storage basket with compartment for shoes, canopy with side curtains and storage cover – included!)

Stroller Wagon Features – My Review Of Keenz & Veer Wagons

What similar features they have and what differentiates them? And what’s most important: what makes Keenz 7S and Veer Cruiser currently the best stroller wagons on the market?

1. Quality & design

One thing is for sure, you won’t find wagons with better quality than Veer Cruiser and Keenz 7S. They are simply the best when it comes to durability, quality of materials and fabrics, and thoughtful design.

Seriously, when you look at some of other wagons on the market, they seem to be more suitable for dolls, maybe a small dog, but definitely not kids! With Keenz and Veer it’s a completely different story.

These two wagons are designed to accommodate two kids. Each has two seats and total capacity of 110 lbs (55 lbs per seat).

And both these wagons are built to last: they are sturdy and strong enough to hold that weight and serve you for a few years.

Push or pull – whatever is more comfortable for you. These two stroller wagons (Keenz 7S on the left & Veer Cruiser on the right) combine the best features of all-terrain strollers and wagons

2. Wheels, suspension & maneuverability

Veer Cruiser and Keenz 7S Stroller Wagon have really nice wheels that can handle rough terrain. That’s why these wagons are useful for active parents who live in area where there are a lot of dirt, unbeaten roads.

I did some online research and found out that many parents consider buying wagon instead of stroller, but they are afraid it will be really hard to pull with two kids on board. But there’s no need to worry about that!

Front wheels on Veer Cruiser swivel to give you better maneuverability and easier turning in narrow spaces. There is also front-wheel suspension that smooths the ride over uneven terrain.

There are large rear wheels with fenders to protect passengers from mud and debris.

Thanks to big, rugged tires Veer wagon stroller can ride over grass, country dirt roads and snow. It’s performance on sand is average (if it’s not too soft and loose).

There is one-touch flip flop friendly brake (it’s located below the handlebar) – easy to use even barefoot.

Veer Cruiser has big all-terrain wheels

The wheels that Keenz wagon stroller comes with have rubber, non-inflatable tires. Front wheels pivot which makes Keenz 7S more agile. But you can also lock them in straight position, just like in jogging strollers. It’s very useful when you’re going over harsher terrain.

This stroller wagon is equipped with one-touch parking brake. There are also two additional brakes – one for each smaller wheel.

Keenz wheels are suitable for rough terrain like gravel, grass, bark chips, dirt roads, but only hard-packed ones. On sandy beach they work worse (depending on how deep is the sand).

But don’t worry! Keenz offers special beach wheels that easily handle soft, loose sand. This type of wheels is bigger, wider and has greater tread depth. You won’t find stroller wagon with better wheels for beaches.

I found this great video were you can see the comparison of the regular wheels and beach wheels for Keenz wagon stroller. Although the regular wheels may work on sand, beach wheels are a good investment if you’re going to visit sandy beaches often. The ride is smoother for the kids and pulling the wagon is easier for the parent.

LATEST UPDATE: Keenz is currently redesigning the beach wheels to make them all-terrain. We don’t know yet when the new wheels will become available. The previous beach wheels (these ones) won’t be available again.

3. Seats & seating options

Stroller wagons are really roomy and can be used for a longer period of time, when the stroller seat is not capacious enough to accommodate big toddler or older kid. They are also great option for tall kids.

Besides, in wagon strollers kids sit facing each other which is so much fun!

Okay, now let’s take a closer look at Veer and Keenz interiors. We’ll notice they look completely different.

Keenz 7S has fully padded interior. There are two seat cushions, the backrests are cushioned as well. Side walls are also covered with fabric, no sharp edges, everything is smooth and soft.

Oh, and you don’t have to worry out spills and stains. You can easily take the whole fabric off and wash it.

I love high walls and 5-point harnesses with soft padding on the straps. You can be sure that in Keenz your children are safe and buckled securely in place.

Keenz 7S has nicely padded interior, even the harnesses have fabric covers on the straps!

There’s one small drawback when it comes to Keenz wagon interior: there is no footwell. It rather doesn’t bother kids, but it does mean less space for bigger kids.

The seats on Veer Cruiser stroller wagon hybrid are built-in and have vented backs that allow for air circulation even on summer days. There is also an extendable footwell, which other wagons (including Keenz) lack!

So the interior has two heights and there is actually place for passengers feet. Big advantage.

The side walls are soft and covered with fabric for passengers comfort. The whole construction is very strong and durable. The materials are also water repellent, stain and fade resistant. However, the seat is plastic and the backrest is rubberized, but there is no padding or cushion at all! For me it’s the biggest disappointment (you can purchase seat padding separately though).

On Veer Cruiser there’s actual place for children’s feet. The footwell extends few inches down and simply folds up for easier storage

The sides of Veer wagon stroller are shorter than on Keenz 7S. Thanks to that even smaller and shorter children have 360° views. I’m sure your curious toddlers will be happy in it! However, I’d a bit worried if my frisky 2-year-old boys didn’t try to venture out or try to touch the ground or wheels (good thing is that rear wheels have fenders!). Another thing that I’m not a fan of is the 3-point harness (for each seat) without padding on straps.

Veer cruiser is a great option for two kids at different age. Moreover, you can use it from birth! For a newborn baby you can add a car seat (there are adapters for example for Cybex and Maxi-Cosi) and the older one can ride in other seat at the same time.

If you want to use Veer wagon stroller for two older kids (for example toddler + preschooler) keep in mind that 5 year old should fit fine, but it may be too tight for a six year old, especially in the leg room.

Veer Cruiser can be used since day one till your kids go to school!

4. Canopies

Keenz 7S’ canopy is fully removable. So you can keep the canopy on a sunny day, to protect your kid from sunburns. And when your kids get taller you can remove the canopy so they could still use the wagon and sit in it comfortably. Even a school kid or taller preschooler can fit in Keenz 7S.

You can also take off the top cover from the roof if you want to provide your passengers with better air-flow (there is a mesh layer).

It also has two side curtains to protect your kids and all of your gear from hot sun without blocking air flow.

You can created an isolated and sheltered place for your kids – perfect for naptime

Veer Cruiser doesn’t come with canopy. You need to purchase it separately (at Amazonorat PishPosh). If you want both of your kids to have shade from the sun, you can install two canopies with no problem.

Each Veer canopy has useful side vents which can also serve as peek-a-boo windows.

5. Handlebars

Keenz has two adjustable handles (highest setting is 43”) which allow you to either push or pull it.

Keenz 7S is equipped with two adjustable handles for convenient pushing (like a stroller) and pulling (like a wagon)

On Veer wagon there’s one handlebar that telescopes to adjust to parent height (even for short person like 5’5” and tall person like 6’3”) and allow for comfortable pushing. If you want to pull it, you can lower the handle down. You can pull it along like a luggage as well.

The handle on Veer Cruiser telescopes in and out. You can also lower it completely for pulling

6. Storage space

Inside the Veer wagon there are few storage pockets and pouches for kids’ toys or snacks. Unfortunately there is no storage basket for bigger items and you definitely cannot hang your diaper bag on the handle.

But you can purchase Veer storage bin separately (check its price for example at Amazon or at PishPosh). It’s big enough to fit all necessities even for a day trip or few shopping bags.

Veer Cruiser – Additional storage basket (sold separately)

Keenz 7S offers more storage space: it has big storage basket with built-in shoe storage. On the opposite site there are few additional pockets for small items.

Keenz 7S Double Stroller Wagon has a large storage bin with a compartment for shoes!

PRO TIP: If you purchase this stroller wagon from PishPosh Baby store, you will receive a cooler (that fits inside the storage bin) and a cup holder!

Keep in mind that Keenz wagon sells out quickly – don’t wait any longer and purchase it before it’s out of stock again!

7. Weight & Folding

Veer wagon folds up flat (even the sides fold down) and features self-stand so you could easily store it at home or in a car trunk.

Veer Cruiser – Self-standing fold (37″ x 20″ x 14″)

Keenz 7S folds up pretty compact as well (it’s few inches narrower and shorter than Veer wagon). Besides, it comes with a storage cover which can be also used for transport and travel. It stands on its own when folded and you can pull it like a suitcase!

Folded Keenz 7S is smaller than Veer Cruiser and fits in majority of car trunks

Both these stroller wagons weigh quite a bit (more than a single strollers, but similar to standard double strollers). Without the canopy Keenz weighs about 29 lbs, while Veer weighs 32.5 lbs and it definitely feels heavier. But still, lifting and putting both wagons to the car trunk is definitely doable, even for a petite mom.

8. Colors

Stroller-wagons can be fashionable too! Keenz 7S comes in four colors: black, grey, purple and green. Keep in mind that some versions may be out of stock sometimes. Don’t forget to check the availability before you choose your color.

Veer Cruiser comes with Heather Gray walls and black frame. Last time I checked there was also a limited edition with Ice Camo exterior. Just check how cool it looks!

Okay, so you can see what are the similarities and differences between these two best stroller wagons. But now it’s time to answer the question that intrigues many parents: “Which stroller wagon is better: Veer or Keenz?”

Considering all the features, accessories (also the ones that you have to/can purchase separately) and the price I’d say Keenz 7S is the best stroller wagon.

Veer Cruiser is amazing, but it lacks some basic equipment like the canopy, it doesn’t have any padding on the seats or harnesses. But still it’s much more expensive than Keenz wagon which is kind of surprising for many parents! Frankly, if you purchased Veer Cruiser with all the items that Keenz 7S comes with (like the canopy, storage basket etc.) you’d spend over $1000 which is almost 3 times more than Keenz 7S!

There are a lot of accessories for Veer Cruiser, but except for 2 cup holders & snack tray, they are all sold separately

Other things that make me prefer Keenz wagon? Smaller fold that you can pull like a suitcase, about 3 lbs lighter construction, lockable front wheels, higher side walls (safety first!) and suitability even for 6 or 8 years old kids (while Veer is suitable only up to 5/6 years).

When you compare both strollers wagon in action they seem quite similar. Both can handle city sidewalks, gravel paths in parks, grass, even the snow. But there’s one more thing that makes Keenz 7S a winner – there is possibility to replace the regular wheels for beach wheels which are suitable for more challenging terrain like soft sand.

A post shared by The McKinney’s (@kerginger) on Jun 14, 2018 at 11:59pm PDT

Of course Veer Cruiser is high-quality, durable, looks awesome, the craftsmanship is perfect and it does have two things that Keenz 7S lacks (compatibility with infant car seats = suitability from birth and footwell), but still not many parents can afford it. However, if you’re looking for a stroller alternative that you could use from birth, then Veer Cruiser is definitely worth considering. Only with Veer you won’t need a regular stroller at all.

Keenz wagon stroller is high-quality as well and you can be sure it will serve you for years. But you cannot use it from birth, only when the child can sit unassisted and has really good neck control. But since it has lower price, it can be purchased as addition to regular stroller. It can serve as stroller alternative, but only for toddlers and older kids.

To sum up, I find both stroller wagons top-quality, useful and great alternatives for strollers. I think Keenz 7S is better equipped and more functional than Veer Cruiser, especially considering much lower price. But still there is one category that Veer wagon wins in: it’s suitable from birth, so if you decide to invest in it, you won’t need standard stroller (only the infant car seat).

Regardless of which stroller wagon we consider better, it’s clear that some of their features are similar to stroller’s functions.

So you may ask now:

Why Would Parents Prefer To Use A Wagon Instead Of A Stroller?

Well, there is one huge difference between these two products. Although many big kid strollers have high weight limit (even 65 or 75 lbs in single strollers) they can accommodate only a 4 or 5-year-old kid. Usually the stroller seat is just not wide and long enough to accommodate older kid! The child outgrows the seat, long before he exceeds the weight limit.

On the other hand we have stroller wagons – which are really roomy and have removable canopy, so the kid can really ride in it for 7 or even 8 years!

Of course there are strollers that are proper for 6 or 7-year-old kid, for example GB Pockit, but it’s not suitable for an off-road cruising.

A post shared by Kirsten (@kirstenmigler) on Apr 23, 2018 at 5:59pm PDT

Stroller wagon can be an excellent stroller alternative when:

Your baby grows faster than his peers and already is really big for his age so will quickly outgrow (or already has) your stroller

Your kid is very tall and none of the strollers has backrest long enough

You have a child with special needs who is already too big for regular strollers

You’re looking for an alternative to double stroller for trips to theme parks, zoo etc.

However, not only parents of older and big kids buy stroller wagons, some parents start using them with infants! The wagon from Veer can be even used for a newborn because parents can attach a car seat to it or use the wagon as a bassinet. Wagon from Keenz is suitable for kids that can sit unassisted.

Stroller wagon – where you can use it

You are probably wondering if this wagon is suitable only for off-road cruising or hiking. To be honest, stroller wagon can serve you as alternative to everyday stroller. Many parents take them for shopping to the mall or grocery store, to the parks, zoo or Disneyland (they are really popular there).

So just like parents use their single and double strollers for daily errands, shopping, walks and family trips, you can use a stroller wagon for the same purpose. No matter, if your kid is 1 or 5-year-old!

Such a well-equipped, comfy and safe stroller wagon can be your only vehicle for your baby and can serve you from infancy for many years. It can be also very useful with an older and bigger kid and a child with special needs.

Frequently asked questions about kids wagons

Below I answer the most popular questions that parents usually have before they decide to buy kids wagon. If you have any other questions, let me know in the comment section!

Can you use Keenz and Veer wagon at Disneyland?

Generally speaking wagons that can be only pulled are not allowed at Dineyland. However Keenz 7S is JPMA certified stroller-wagon so you can take it to Disneyland (and Disney World and Legoland too) but you need to push it like a stroller.

Veer wagon can be pushed like a stroller too, therefore you can use it at Disneyland like many other parents do.

Isn’t it great?

Lots of parents use stroller wagons in theme parks, not only for infants (as a stroller alternative) but also for older kids and children with special needs.

So you’re looking for a stroller for Disneyland, you should definitely consider Keenz or Veer stroller wagon hybrids.

One thing to keep in mind: Disneyland staff may ask you to prove that your wagon can be pushed like a normal stroller and has brakes. Both Keenz and Veer stroller wagons meet these requirements. If you want to be sure you can go to Disneyland (or any other theme park), you may want to contact them before the trips. 🙂

Can you travel by airplane with stroller wagons?

Obviously both Keenz wagon and Veer wagon are too big to be taken as carry-on, but you can check them at the gate with no issues. I recommend taking the wheels off, so they don’t get lost or damaged during the flight.

Can you use these stroller wagons for one child who over 55 lbs?

Keenz and Veer wagons have capacity of 110 lbs each, 55 lbs per seat. If you want to use these stroller wagon hybrids for one child who exceeds seat weight limit, it would be at your own discretion. But I have to mention that I’ve read that some parents use Keenz 7S for only one child who weighs more than 55 lbs (for example 8 years old child with special needs) and it hold up fine.

Can you use these stroller wagons for 3 kids?

Keenz and Veer have two seats and harnesses for 2 kids. Each can hold up to 110 lbs, so it will probably accommodate 3 kids who don’t exceed this limit, but it would be at your own discretion, since one child would not be buckled.

How does stroller wagon compare to a double jogging stroller?

Keenz or Veer wagons are not suitable for running, but they are good for brisk walking. They are less maneuverable than jogging stroller and a bit more difficult to turn, but still these are the best stroller wagons that you can currently find on the market.

Is the interior comfortable for kids?

These stroller wagons are very comfortable and roomy for kids. Many parents use them for children who outgrew normal strollers, even 6 years old! Some parents even say Keenz wagon is so comfy that their children nap in it, few people recommend bringing a blanket for extra cushion. To use Veer wagon for napping you will need special attachment (Nap System).

Keenz vs Veer – which stroller wagon is better for beach?

In general both kid wagons are great for uneven surfaces like grass, hard-packed gravel or bark chips. They can handle some beaches if the sand is not very deep, but if the sand if soft and loose they may get stuck.

However, for Keenz wagon you can purchase beach wheels, specially designed for sand. So if you plan on going to the sandy beaches often, Keenz 7S with beach wheels is better solution.

LATEST INFO: Keenz is currently redesigning the beach wheels. The previous ones won’t be available again. For now we don’t know when the new wheels are going to hit the market.

Can you use stroller wagons in winter?

Both these stroller wagons can be used all year round. Keenz 7S and Veer Cruiser can handle slush and snow (maybe just not tons of it…), but it’s definitely easier to pull them than push on that surfaces.

Hi Jennifer. I’ve seen people using Keenz wagon even for three toddlers but rather for fun in the backyard than long walks or trips to Disney. The manufacturer recommends using it only up to 110 lbs which means it was tested up to that limit and it’s safe.

I have one small question?????? Which one is better for a napping toddler? My little guy is three and he can’t make it without a nap is there one that’s better than the other for laying down naps? Thank you.

Hi Nicole! Keenz 7S has flat floor (no foot well) so it is suitable for naps on the go. Maybe add a toddler nap mat or a blanket to make it more cushy and your toddler will enjoy his naps 🙂
Veer Cruiser has foot well so the floor is not flat and not suitable for laying down nap. Veer offers nap system (small bassinet with mattress) but it’s only for infants up to 20 lbs. It would be too small for a 3 year old and the bassinet could broke.
Therefore Keenz 7S is definitely better choice 🙂

Hi Blair! I got information that unfortunately these wheels won’t be available again, as the brand is redesigning them and we don’t know yet when they’ll be on the market 🙁
The regular wheels are really great though, and they can handle hard packed or wet sand. But I can’t promise you they will work on soft sand well. If the sand is not very loose they may actually work – if you pull (not push) the wagon with big wheels at the front.

Hi! I just bought the veer cruiser for my two year old with a disability. I was hoping to use it on walking trails and at the beach. We tried it at the beach this weekend and failed miserably. We ended up having to carry the wagon with our son in it because it just couldn’t get through the sand. Now I’m looking at the keenz, because you can order beach wheels. Do you know if it handles as well on rocky/rough paths? Thanks!

Hi Jenn! It’s true that most of wagons (and all-terrain strollers) handle only the hard-packed sand and gravel, but not the beaches. However I think Keenz 7S will be a better choice for you, if you like off-road walks 🙂
The regular wheels that Keenz comes with, can go over small rocks, gravel, grass and wet hard-packed sand. The beach wheels are even better and handle beaches. And they cushion the ride more so the baby is protected from shocks even better. I think they’ll suit you better.

LittleBabyGear.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

This website uses cookies so we could analyze our traffic and provide our readers with the best experience. By continuing to use Little Baby Gear, you accept the use of cookies by us and our Privacy Policy.